Asian Journal of Case Reports in Surgery

Thoracic ectopia cordis is a rare congenital abnormality with a complete partial displacement of the heart outside the thoracic cavity. Prognosis is poor and depends on the severity of intracardiac defects. With its high mortality and <5% survival rate, management is challenging. Here we report a case of ectopic cordis in a pre-term newborn presented with a heart totally outside the thoracic cavity without pericardium protection. Due to the lack of antenatal diagnosis, cardiopulmonary complications and poor prognosis, we accepted masterly inactivity. This approach was best for the family, society and other available resources. Unfortunately, Neonate succumbed to death within 24 hours of life.